Fiona Wood Becomes First Woman in 26 Years to Win Countdown

Fiona Wood, a forensic accountant from Kinross, has made history as the first woman to win the iconic game show Countdown in 26 years.

In a gripping final on Friday, Wood clinched the championship by solving the decisive conundrum, “lassitude,” meaning physical or mental weariness, defeating her rival, Chris Kirby.

Her victory makes her the sixth female champion in the show’s history since its debut in 1982, breaking a decades-long streak dominated by male winners.

Elated by her achievement, Wood urged more women to participate in the competition. “I have absolutely no regrets about applying and would encourage other women to give it a go,” she said.

Before Wood’s win, the last female champion was crowned in the late 20th century. Her success underscores the growing call for gender diversity in competitive television.